The William Benton Museum of Art at the University of Connecticut

Nestled in the heart of the University of Connecticut campus is one of Connecticut’s premiere art museums, The William Benton Museum of Art. It is a cultural asset to the school as well as the general public through its collected works, research endeavors and educational programs that all strive for a greater appreciation and understanding of art.

The museum lives in a small Gothic building built in 1920 and nicknamed “The Beanery” from its service as the campus’ main dining hall when University of Connecticut was known as the Connecticut Agricultural College. Today the structure is a vibrant part of the campus’ art culture flanked by an outdoor sculpture garden. It is also one of many of the university’s buildings that are on the National Register of Historic Places.

The museum’s collection originated from a bequest by the College’s president, Charles Beach. When Beach died in 1933, he left an impressive collection of works including pieces from Childe Hassam, Emil Carlson and Charles H. Davis. Since its inception, the Benton has acquired art work from world renowned artists such as Gustav Climt.

The Benton’s collection grew significantly in the 1960s with a donation of 107 Käthe Kollwitz prints and drawings from Dr. Walter Landauer, a genetics professor. The museum was created to house these works and those left by Charles Beach. Its name was chosen to honor William Benton, a prominent Connecticut Senator and a trustee of the University of Connecticut.